Best Hiking Trails in the US

Exploring the numerous hiking trails in the United States reveals the country’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking trails across the US, which offer unique experiences for both novice and experienced hikers.

Appalachian Trail, Eastern US

The Appalachian Trail stretches over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine. It passes through 14 states and is one of the longest continuous trails in the world. Hikers can experience a variety of terrains, including forests, fields, and rugged mountains.

• Georgia to North Carolina: This section includes the iconic Blood Mountain and the Nantahala National Forest.
• Tennessee to Virginia: Features the Great Smoky Mountains and McAfee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the trail.
• New Hampshire to Maine: White Mountains in New Hampshire and the wilderness of Maine provide challenging yet rewarding experiences.

Pacific Crest Trail, Western US

Spanning from the Mexican border to the Canadian border, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) covers approximately 2,650 miles. It travels through California, Oregon, and Washington. The PCT offers diverse environments, from arid deserts to lush forests and snowy peaks.

• Southern California: Includes the Mojave Desert and begins just north of the Mexican border.
• Central California: Takes hikers through the stunning Sierra Nevada, including Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park.
• Northern California to Oregon: Features volcanic landscapes and Crater Lake.
• Washington: Ends in the Cascades, just south of the Canadian border.

John Muir Trail, California

The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a 211-mile trail that runs from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. It intersects with the PCT and traverses the High Sierra. The trail boasts unforgettable scenery, including glacially-carved valleys, towering granite peaks, and pristine alpine lakes.

• Yosemite National Park: Starts with the iconic Half Dome and leads to the heart of the Sierra Nevada.
• Ansel Adams Wilderness: Known for its picturesque landscapes and serene environment.
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Offer the towering peaks and the highest point in the continental US, Mount Whitney.

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Hike, Arizona

Hiking rim-to-rim in the Grand Canyon provides an unparalleled experience. The hike spans approximately 24 miles from the North Rim to the South Rim. Hikers cross a variety of ecological zones, from pine forests to desert landscapes within the canyon.

• North Kaibab Trail: Descends over 14 miles from the North Rim through diverse vegetation and eye-catching formations.
• Bright Angel Trail: Ascends over 10 miles from the Colorado River to the South Rim, offering ample opportunities to view the canyon’s geological strata.

Zion Narrows, Utah

The Narrows in Zion National Park is a 16-mile hike through the Virgin River, enclosed by towering canyon walls. The trail involves wading and sometimes swimming, making it a unique hydrologic adventure.

• Top-Down Hike: Requires a permit and starts from Chamberlain Ranch, providing a full-day trek through the Virgin River Narrows.
• Bottom-Up Hike: Begins at the Temple of Sinawava and allows for a less strenuous experience where hikers can turn back at any point.

Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

The Kalalau Trail runs along the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai. It covers 11 miles from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach. The trail offers steep ascents, dramatic coastal cliffs, and lush tropical landscapes.

• Ke’e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach: The first 2 miles include ocean views and a river crossing.
• Hanakapiai Beach to Kalalau Beach: The remaining 9 miles are more challenging, passing through valleys, waterfalls, and remote beaches.

Wonderland Trail, Washington

The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier. Hikers encounter diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense temperate rainforests to alpine meadows. The landscape changes as they journey through different elevations.

• Carbon River: Rich with old-growth forests and glacial rivers.
• Indian Bar: Features high-altitude meadows and sweeping vistas of Mount Rainier.
• Mowich Lake: Offers deep-blue lakes surrounded by forested valleys.

Continental Divide Trail, Western US

The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) spans around 3,100 miles from the Mexican border in New Mexico to the Canadian border in Montana. It follows the Rocky Mountains and offers some of the most remote and rugged hiking in the US.

• New Mexico: Traverses desert plains and forested mountains.
• Colorado: Includes the San Juan Mountains and Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Wyoming: Passes through the Wind River Range and Yellowstone National Park.
• Montana: Ends in the Glacier National Park with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Long Trail, Vermont

The Long Trail is the oldest long-distance trail in the US, extending 273 miles through Vermont from the Massachusetts border to Canada. It traverses the Green Mountains and provides a serene hiking experience with frequent panoramic views.

• Southern Section: Crosses several peaks and showcases classic New England forests.
• Middle Section: Includes scenic ridgelines, such as Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont.
• Northern Section: More rugged and remote, perfect for experienced hikers seeking solitude.

Mount Katahdin via the Knife Edge Trail, Maine

Mount Katahdin is the highest peak in Maine and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The Knife Edge Trail provides a thrilling 1.1-mile scramble along a narrow ridge with views extending for miles around.

• Helon Taylor Trail: Ascends the mountain, offering expansive views of the area.
• Knife Edge Trail: Traverses an exhilarating, narrow rock ridge between Pamola Peak and Baxter Peak.
• Saddle Trail: Offers a descent route with views of glacial cirques and basins.

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